Abstract: The establishment of organochlorine insecticides (OCIs) exhibited remarkable benefits on various sectors such as agricultural, commercial, pharmaceutical, household usage, active ingredient as preservatives in fruits and vegetables etc. Nevertheless, the use of these synthetics increased day by day, perceived harmful effects worldwide. The present study focused on the current trends in the OCI levels in selected soils of Palakkad district, Kerala. Soil samples were collected during the month of September, 2014 (Wet Season) and February, 2015 (Dry Season) and OCIs namely, α-BHC, β-BHC, γ-BHC, heptachlor, aldrin, heptachlor epoxide (B), 4,4’-DDE, dieldrin, endrin, 2,4’-DDD, 4,4’-DDD, 2,4’-DDT, 4,4’-DDT, α-endosulfan and β-endosulfan, has been monitored in order to assess the caused risk assessment by using GC-ECD. Results revealed that the ∑OCIs in soils were ranged from 16.79 – 123.27 ng g-1 along the stations throughout the sampling period. Dominant contaminants frequently observed were endrin, heptachlor derivatives, aldrin, BHC derivatives and dieldrin, while other analyzed OCIs including DDT derivatives and endosulphan were found below detection levels (BDL). These observations highlight the gradual shift in the application of synthetic towards traditional practices of organic farming in the area. However, the occurrence of trace amounts of OCIs in the realm could be designated as slight recent application.
Keywords: Organochlorine insecticides (OCIs), contaminants, monitoring, environment, soil.
Title: Environmental Monitoring Assessment of Organochlorine Insecticides in Palakkad District, Kerala, India
Author: Nisa Kulangaravalappil Gopalan, Sujatha Chenicherry
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations
ISSN 2348-1218 (print), ISSN 2348-1226 (online)
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